Like his contemporary Max Linder, comedian Marcel Perez began his film career in Europe, starring in a series of very short films in which he explored simple situations. This brief comedy, made in Italy when Perez's screen character was known as "Robinet," explores the theme of obsessive love. Our hero, who appears to be something of a swell, goes to the music-hall and manages to make a nuisance of himself before taking his seat to watch the show. He instantly falls in love with a singer who bears the formidable name of Mimi Kratzfuss, and dashes backstage to meet her. She's already departed, but Robinet bribes her maid, gets the lady's home address, and rushes there. After various misadventures, Robinet slips into Mimi's room with a skeleton key and declares his love. Miss Kratzfuss, caught in her nightgown and understandably alarmed, summons the police, and Robinet is brusquely shown the door.
That's the gist of it. From the 21st century perspective, Robinet's behavior is indeed alarming. We would call him a "stalker," and while watching this comedy I couldn't help but think of real life situations where performers have been plagued by over-enthusiastic admirers. (Jodie Foster comes to mind.) But it must be remembered that this short was produced in a more innocent era; or at least, more innocent where this kind of relationship is concerned. Robinet is portrayed as goofy and clueless, but not dangerous, rather like the hicks in Keystone comedies who shout instructions to actors on the screen at the local cinema. In any case, there are several memorable moments in this film. I especially liked the wildly exuberant opera singer in the music- hall, and the funny little march-step performed by the cops, seemingly for their own amusement. Perez, as always, darts about with grace and vigor, whatever the circumstances.
It's interesting to compare this early short with a longer and far more elaborate comedy Marcel Perez made ten years later in America, Sweet Daddy, in which he once again falls in love with a stage performer. Watching the two shorts back to back reveals his remarkable development as a film comedian.